Daman And Diu A journey of a thousand miles begins with single step

A journey of a thousand miles begins with single step

Daman and Diu are the twin islands listed amongst the popular tourist destinations in India. Union Territory of Daman and Diu comprises of two districts namely Daman and Diu. Both Districts are situated on western coast of India at a distance of about 700 kms. Daman is the Head Quarter of this Union Territory. Daman is on the main land, while Diu is an island.The beautiful beaches of Daman and Diu, its elaborate cuisine, rich heritage, vibrant culture, and the finest architecture makes it a paradise for tourists from across the globe.

Known for their beaches and exotic liquors, these twin islands are a tourist's haven for escaping the cacophony of mundane life. Be it the rich historic past or the faint songs of the anglers, everything in Daman and Diu assist in creating a paradise for one in search of tranquility. The forts and churches of the past, and the pubs of today, combine to engender a strange ambience of nostalgia and experience.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN DAMAN AND DIU

Daman and Diu is a splendid holiday destination for those tourists looking to have a gala of a time. There are several beaches in both Daman and Diu where you can catch lovely views of the sunset and lose yourself in the peace that surrounds them. If you are fond of water sports, there are lots of opportunities for that too. You should also visit the churches, both for their architecture and the interesting history associated with them.

FAMOUS FOR

Daman is famous for its beautiful beaches, portugues colonical architecture, churches and the mesmirizing beauty of twin towns of Nani-Daman and Moti-Daman.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit the place is through the months of October to March, when slightly cooler weather than the rest of the year makes sightseeing and travel an enjoyable experience. During the monsoons, the place receives heavy rainfall and at times it’s really impossible to venture out.

FOOD OF DAMAN AND DIU

The food of Daman and Diu has flavors of its colonial roots and the nearby cultures such as Gujarati, Maharashtrian, and Goan. Diu serves the best seafood comprising lobsters, crabs, and fishes. Daman, on the other hand, serves authentic Gujarati and Portuguese food. The most popular among them are Papri, Chicken Bullet, Parsi Kheema, Akuri, Aleti Paleti with Chicken Liver, Cozido, and Fish Koliwada. Basundi and Lapsee are the two local sweet dishes that are hard to resist.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR About 193 kms away from Daman and Diu territory are the international and domestic airports in Mumbai – all major international and national airlines ply to these airports. Daman and Diu are also accessible through the Bhavnagar and Porbandar airports in Gujarat. From these airports, local taxis and buses are available and you can choose one of them to complete the journey to these enclaves.

BY RAIL

The main railhead is Vapi, which is 10 km away. Vapi is about 170 km from Mumbai and 90 km from Surat. Buses and auto rickshaws are available to Daman from Vapi.The nearest railhead is Delwada, 8 km from Diu. It is locatedbetween Una and Ghoghla.

BY ROAD

The tourist office in Daman (Tel. No.: 55104) is near the bus stand.For road services, Una is the access point and there are direct buses from Bhavnagar (180 km), Veraval (90 km), and Talaja. There is a ferry service from Vanakbara to Kotla village, from where one can get buses to Kodinar. Auto and cycle rickshaws are available to commute within the city. Cycling is the most common mode of local transport. The tourist office is on Bunder Road (Tel. No.: 52212). One can exchange money at slightly lower rates in the banks.

PLACES TO VISIT IN DAMAN

JAMPORE BEACH

A hidden gem by the town of Daman, Jampore beach is an isolated beach by the Gujarat border. The beach lies to the south of Daman and has not seen much commercialization like other beaches.

This is what makes the beach an ideal spot to experience the serenity of nature. The beach is also safe to take a dip into. The beach is well connected by road and rail, with the road being the most ideal means of transport. beach is also safe to take a dip into. The beach is well connected by road and rail, with the road being the most ideal means of transport.

About 3 km south of moti daman

DEVKA BEACH

Devka beach is a highly sought after beach very close to Daman. The beach is lined with an amusement park and musical fountains.

The amusement park is kept illuminated on festive days, especially during nariyal Poornima that attracts massive amounts of tourists to this place, making a spectacle to watch. Being the top-most beach in Daman, this destination is a visual treat for the beach lovers. People claim that even the non-lovers of sea fall in love with this place. Besides providing an aura of serendipity, this beach is surrounded by shacks which offer mouth-watering delicacies. So whenever you are on the beach, your to-do list should include trying out food from the shacks, drinking exotic drinks and bathing in the sun.

DEVKA AMUSEMENT PARK – GREAT PLACE FOR KIDS

Being the top-most beach in Daman, this destination is a visual treat for the beach lovers. People claim that even the non-lovers of sea fall in love with this place. Besides providing an aura of serendipity, this beach is surrounded by shacks which offer mouth-watering delicacies. So whenever you are on the beach, your to-do list should include trying out food from the shacks, drinking exotic drinks and bathing in the sun.

Moti Daman Fort

Colonial-style architecture; 1559 AD; 10 bastions; 2 gateways; and an Iberian church is the best description of the Moti Daman Fort to awaken the hidden explorer in you. This fort offers a glimpse to the history of the establishment of Daman and the entrenchment of the Portuguese at the shore. So whenever on this brilliant piece of work, try to absorb the aura and praise the essence of the place as this is one of the must-see places in Daman.

LIGHTHOUSE

Located at Daman Ganga Bridge, the lighthouse is situated in the premises of a Fort which was built during the Portuguese era and is considered to be one of the major landmarks of the district of Daman. The Lighthouse is fully functional and provides guidance to all kinds of sea traffic both outbound and inbound. The fort itself is a must visit place and has a remarkable architecture and covers an area of around 30,000 sq meters. The fort was protected in old times by a moat on the land side and has a total of 10 bastions. The lighthouse is a serene place to visit, especially during the evening when the fort and the sea provide an amazing landscape, thus enhancing its beauty.

JAIN TEMPLE – PAY A VISIT

Jain temple in Daman is located to the northern region of the very impressive and famous Nani Daman fort. The specialty of this temple is exquisitely and intricately designed and decorated inner walls. The walls have very elegant glass cover. The glass covers have 18th century murals. These murals represent the life of Mahavir Swami. Mahavir Swami is considered to be the founder of Jainism.

Apart from visiting the Daman Jain temple you can also take a hop to the Nani Daman fort or Fort of St. Jerome. You will also be delighted to catch the sight of the striking church of Our Lady of the Sea. This Catholic Church is one of the oldest seats of office. It boasts of a fine altar with splendid paneling. Besides, the sight of the fish market and small fishing fleet which anchors alongside is also very engrossing.

MIRASOL LAKE GARDEN

The Mirasol Lake Garden is one of top tourist destination in Daman and situated about 1.5 KM from Devka beach towards Bhimpore. It is an artificial pond with an island in the middle, which houses a restaurant. The gardens around the waterbody and in the island are maintained well. There are pedal boats available for rent, a toy train which runs around the lake, cricket from the automated bowling machine and kids play area.

The Mirasol Garden is a beautifully designed and well maintained Lake + Garden. It is really a soothing sight and a must visit location during any visit to Daman. Overall a good place for spending time with family on weekendThe Mirasol lake garden situated at near village Kadaiya, Nani Daman. A Wholly man-made wonder offering a variety of cuisine, the restaurant excels in the panoramic view it has to offer. There is a lake surrounding the two islands connected by a bridge. Fountains and beautiful boats add to the remarkable greenery which meets the eye in every direction. Various interesting features like computer games, toy train make it a favorite family tourist spot. The Kadaiya Lake Garden is a famous tourist spot for shooting of many films. It is just 7 kms away from the Taxi Stand, Nani Daman. Auto rickshaws are available.

JETTY GARDEN

This beautiful garden is situated on the shores on River Daman Ganga. Artfully designed, this garden displays an elegance that will keep you awe-struck. The exquisite fountains will hold your complete attention, as will the array of exotic flora all over the garden. The seats all face the shimmering waters of the river, and the well laid lawns will make you take your shoes off and just enjoy the feel of the grass playing with your toes. Spend an evening strolling in this beautiful environment, watch boats cruising down the river and completely relax yourselves.

LOCATION jetty Garden Address: Fort Area, Moti Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396220, India

DAMAN GANGA TOURIST COMPLEX

The Daman’s Ganga Tourist Complex is a well planned and beautifully laid out garden. It is a dream place for every tourist. Sitting in a complete solitude, this garden complex offers plethora of facilities and services that keep its region almost bustling with plenty of activities. It is a quintessential example of beauty and facilities. You will surely have a true tryst with fun being here.

The Daman’s Ganga Tourist Complex is also graced with huge and impressive waterfalls, landscaped island gardens and spouting fountains. These settings lend an exotic look to the complex area. You will completely be mesmerized at the sight of all these.

FORT JEROME

Located at the North side of Damanganga river at Nani Daman, Daman; Fort Jerome was named after St. Jerome whose statue is placed on top of the main entrance. The fort was constructed in order to keep watch on the activities in the sea. The main attraction of this fort is the Church of Our Lady of the sea which is a remarkable example of Portuguese style architecture, a part of the church has now been converted into a school. The other thing to see in the fort premises is the Portuguese war cemetery which is nearly as old as the fort. The thick walls of the fort, even though more than 4 centuries old show no sign of breakage. The fort is a remarkable place to visit for the people who want a glimpse at the remarkable Portuguese style architecture.

DIU

Diu is situated at the extreme south of Saurashtra peninsula, this is a small island and one among the sea ports of western India. Diu is not part of Gujarat State Administration. Diu is a famous tourist place approximately 5000 tourist visitors visit Diu per month. Tourist and people of Diu celebrating all the festivals with colors and joy. Diu Tourism department arranging Diu Festival every year in December to encourage tourism.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR Tourists can reach Diu by air with the airport nearest to the city is the Mumbai Airport, located in Mumbai. This airport is located 193 kn away from Diu. Taxis are available from here to reach this place from the airport.

BY TRAIN To reach Diu, Vapi railway station in Daman.

BY ROAD Several public and private transport buses are available that ply their services to this destination besides many private tourist buses.

BEST TIME TO VISIT The best time to visit Diu is during winter months staring from October to March. The clean environment and beaches attracts several tourist from all parts of world.

PLACES TO VISIT IN DIU Diu has an inexplicable beauty of its own that meticulously combines the Portuguese culture and the Indian way of life. We have compiled a list of places that you must visit when in Diu.

GHOGLA BEACH

Ghogla Beach is one the cleanest beach in Diu. It lies north of the city 20 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach is comparatively secluded from the prying eyes of tourists. Since not a lot of people know about this beach, the entire atmosphere is relatively calm.

The beach is clean as well as safe for those who want to enjoy some quiet time with their friends and loved ones. The beach although being secluded has some water-based activities like parasailing, surfing, and Banana Boating.

Distance from Diu city centre: 3 kilometres

Gangeswar Temple: Shiva temple

There are 5 shivalingas here located near the sea at the coast. Devotees come here and offer water from the sea to the 5 shivalingas.there is a small canal sort of thing which supplies sea water to all the 5 shivlingas.The temple is located a 20-minute drive from Diu in the serene Fudam village.

Legends associate the temple with the Pandavas, who established the Shiva lingas at this very spot, making the ground sacred. The unique feature of this temple is that the lingas are in the middle of the sea. Located at a distance of around 3 kilometres from Diu, Gangeshwar Temple is a Hindu Shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu mythology, the five lingas here were established by the Pandavas during their anonymous stay of their 13th and final year of their exile. The place is a revered pilgrimage spot for the Hindus and is a must visit. The temple seems like its carved out of a cave like formation and the breeze from the sea gives an intoxicating feel when you enter the temple. The place is not only a place for worship but is an essential part of the Indian culture and is of prime mythological significance.

Distance from Diu city centre: 4 kilometre

Diu Fort

The Diu Fort, is situated on the west bank of India in Diu, a Union Territory, controlled by the Government of India. The post was constructed by the Portuguese amid their pilgrim principle of the Diu island. The Diu town is situated toward the fort's west. The post was implicit 1535 resulting to a guard collusion produced by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat and the Portuguese while Humayun, the Mughal Emperor battled to attach this region. Development of the fortress was begun in October and finished in March, with the Portuguese constrained work putting their full might. The fortification is an extensive and great structure on the shoreline of the Diu island. It summons a brilliant perspective of the ocean. It skirts the ocean on three sides. The external mass of the stronghold was fabricated along the coast line. The internal divider had bastions on which weapons were mounted.

There are two gateways to enter into this historic citadel. The landing pier and the gateway is protected by the St. George Bastion which is considered to be the oldest part of the fort. The bastion was guarded by Capt.Nannel-De-Souza-De-Supulvedaa who later this fortification till the sea.

This Fort is protected by sea on 3 sides and on the land side was a moat cut through the solid rock. The fort was also highly guarded by cannons on all sides which are still placed inside the fort. The land side of the fort has an imposing double line of bastions facing towards the city of Diu.Three of them are on the outer line of the fort whereas the other four are towards the inner line. All these Bastions have been given the names of famous Christian Saints.

NAIDA CAVES

Naida caves This city never seized to surprise us with its diverse topography, beautiful beaches, historical places and now this labyrinth Naida caves. The Odyssey through this place gives an experience not less than solving a complicated maze. Beware, you might get lost because we did, somehow we reverse engineered the path. Nay, I am kidding, there are directions marked to let everyone glide around.Coming to the backdrop of this place, the forces of nature carved it with soo perfection that they can even inspire architects of our generation. Even the sun is scorching this place, it kept its composure, with those rays illuminating murky points, looked so vivid and cinematic.Such a place is a dreamland for any photographer to do a photo shoot. Unfortunately, we had no models, so Mr.Yogendra Kumar took that responsibility to add some attitude to the portraits.

FORTRESS OF PANIKOTA

The Fortress of Pani Kotha (Fortim Mar) was constructed in the brook's mouth north of Diu. The Pani kotha Fort is a monstrous structure fabricated fit as a fiddle of a boat on 56,736 sq m range, seaward on the Arabian ocean. The leaders of Gujarat and Portuguese mutually made this structure to shield Diu against any conceivable Mughal intrusion. Situated around one nautical mile from Diu, it houses a little beacon and a sanctuary devoted to Our Lady of the Sea. The fortification has old cells and basements where the detainees were bolted. This antiquated stone stronghold is presently a noteworthy visitor destination as it gives a completely staggering perspective of the Arabian Sea. The stronghold was once joined with the area by an underground passage, which is however in vestiges now. Now a days it includes the magnificence of the DIU by lighting the lights on it around evening time. It makes an astounding seen around evening time with brilliant lights on it.

JALANDHAR BEACH

1 km from Diu Town, Diu

This Jallandhar beach is very popular for the Jalandhar place of worship, roosted on a little, wonderful hillock and the sanctuary of Goddess Chandrika. So in case you wish to go for a round of prayer to God alongside appreciating the perspective from the shoreline, then this is the perfect spot for you to visit. Furthermore, look at the stone cutting inside the Jalandhar Shrine. This little place of worship delegated with an arch houses a stone cut face of Jallandhar a legendary evil presence who was murdered by Lord Krishna. It is accepted to be the substance of an evil presence by the name of Jalandhar, who was slaughtered by Krishna. In case that you think shorelines are constantly brimming with individuals, reconsider. A visit to the secluded Jalandhar shoreline will change your point of view. Here, you will have the advantage of having an untainted territory, which is not frequented by numerous visitors. In this way, appreciate the shoreline, the sand and the water, and, obviously, the skyline's perspective.

Nagoa Beach

Probably the most popular area of Diu, this is a beautiful beach with trees lined on the shores. Due to its popularity it lacks a little maintenance but the sea is quieter than the rest and thus a good option for swimming. You can also enjoy a number of water sports here. The gangasagar Bar very close to the beach serves very good beer and it is ideal to cool down with a mug of beer and then lunch after you've had a long day and the sea waves have made you hungry.

A perfectly semi-circle beach, with its calm waters and white sands, is in our opinion the best beach you can visit in Daman and Diu. Nagoa beach is located near the Bucharwada village. The beach is comparatively less crowded and boasts of its blue and crystal clear waters. One can enjoy the thrill of various water sports at this beach and it is perfect for swimming as well. Be it a casual stroll, a volleyball match with friends or a simple nap under the palm trees, the beach has an activity to offer to all the people who visit. This amazing and enchanting beach is a recommended visit and is less crowded as compared to other beaches of Daman and Diu.

DIU MUSEUM

The St.Thomas church was converted into a museum in 1992. There are artifacts of the 16th century , 400 years old. Diu Museum (source)

The Diu Museum is another important landmark in Diu. It was originally constructed as a church dedicated to St. Thomas in 1598 but since then has been converted into a museum.

The museum boasts a collection of stone inscriptions from past rulers, multi-coloured fountains and wood carvings the depict a beautiful picture of Diu’s rich cultural past. The church also houses 400-year-old statues of St Thomas and St Benedict that are carved out entirely of wood and Marble.

Distance from Diu city centre: 2 kilometres

Shoes are to be removed before entering to the museum. You can carry your camera inside. It will take 10 to 20 minutes to complete the visit.

INS KHUKHRI

There is a memorial of INS Khukhri a frigate of Indian Navy which was sunk at 40 nautical miles off the cost of Diu after felling pray to three torpedoes fired from a Pakistani submarine on 9th Dec 1971. With the ship 18 officers and 176 sailors laid down their lives for the glory of the nation.

Names of all officers and sailors of the ship are displayed at the top. There is a model of the ship displayed inside a glass house.

There is an open air theater towards sea with seating arrangement for visitors. This theater is used during Diu Festival every year.

INS Khukri Memorial is a site that pays homage to the fallen heroes of the Indo-Pakistan conflict of 1971. The true ship was sunk by the coast of Diu after being hit by three torpedoes from a Pakistani submarine.

The brave sailors defended the coastline of India till their very last breath and to celebrate that spirit the Indian government decided to build the memorial. There is also an amphitheatre in its vicinity that reenacts the act of valor by the fallen soldiers.

Distance from Diu city centre: 2 kilometres

ZAMPA GATEWAY

On the way to Naida Caves , this red color gate is the entrance to old Diu town. Well maintained till date this gate gives a historic look to the town of Diu. Nothing is inside this gate now except this beautiful walls and gate. Tourist usually take group photo here or take a selfie keeping the gate in background. Zampa Gateway

The Zampa Gateway is an attraction in Diu and serves as an important landmark in the city. True to its name, it’s a walled gateway that connects the town with its surrounding outskirts.

The gateway is laced with carvings of angels, lions, and a priest. The gateway also houses an artificial waterfall that only enhances the aesthetic of the gateway. The gateway marks the entrance to the District of Diu. The construction of Zampa Gateway was done somewhere in the medieval era which is pretty evident by its unique architecture. The walls and the gateway have remarkable carvings of lions, priests and angels. Right inside the gate lays a chapel which was built around 1702 Ad and is another beautiful and intricately designed monument. The site is a must visit for every tourist.

Distance from Diu city centre: 1 kilometres

SUNSET POINT, CHAKRATIRTHA BEACH

Sunset point is located on the Chakratirtha beach in Diu by a hillock that acts as a viewing point. The hillock has been further converted into an enclosure that enables the people visiting the spot to view the sunset without getting wet from the nearby sea waves.

Besides the enclosure, there is also a pedestrian walk that is lighted up during the evenings. This makes it possible for visitors to take strolls by the promenade and admire the beautiful sunset.

Distance from Diu city centre: 2 kilometres

GOMTIMATA BEACH

The Gomtimata beach is located west to the town of Diu and is considered to be one of the best beaches. The beach boasts of a clear coastline and sand so clear that it gives off a white hue to the beach.

Located on the western end of the Diu in the village Vanakbara, this is one of the best beaches of the region. Secluded and with natural white sand, Gomtimata beach is a beautiful beach to just sit back and relax. You will also find a temple located at the beach

The beach is also untouched by the general public which means you can enjoy your moment of serenity with nature without the fear of being disturbed. Thea beach also has a temple nearby if you wish to get in touch with your spiritual side.

Distance from Diu city centre: 13 kilometres

SEASHELLS MUSEUM

Located on the Nagao Road in Diu, the Seashell museum is a must visit. Merchant navy Captain Devjibhai Vira Fulbaria established this museum with a collection of thousands of seashells. With captions written in English, this place helps you easily distinguish between different types of shells. It is one of a kind museum where the visitors are given magnifying glasses of different focal lengths. This helps them in looking at the shells rather clearly and carefully. This collection contains majority from captain ’s own stock. Except for shells, this museum contains literature on the variety of shells and the possibility of their existence.

Hoka Trees in DIU

One of the most unusual places to visit is the Hoka trees that are native to places Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The Hoka trees in India can be only found in Diu. The Hoka tree lends a unique beauty to the coastline of Diu.

The seeds of Hoka trees seeds were used in Ancient Egypt during their funeral rituals. An alcoholic beverage called ‘Tadi ‘is prepared using the Hoka tree seeds.